Thomas Gould
Question:282. Deputy Thomas Gould asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he will publish national figures on homeless deaths. [41750/20]
View answerTuesday, 8 December 2020
Questions (282, 283, 284, 286)
Thomas Gould
Question:283. Deputy Thomas Gould asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if consideration has been given to a national task force on homeless deaths. [41751/20]
View answerThomas Gould
Question:284. Deputy Thomas Gould asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if his attention has been drawn to the fact that homeless deaths nationally are not reported and that this is causing distress to many of those working in the sector. [41752/20]
View answer
Cian O'Callaghan
Question:286. Deputy Cian O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the number of persons using homeless services that have died to date in 2020 and in the same period over the past three years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41940/20]
View answerWritten answers
I propose to take Questions Nos. 282, 283, 284 and 286 together.
There have been a number of deaths, in recent months, of people who had been sleeping rough or accessing homeless services. Each of these deaths is a tragedy and I extend my sympathies to the families concerned.
The deaths of people availing of homeless services are a concern. In order to provide a better understanding on this matter, the Dublin Region Homeless Executive (DRHE) and the HSE have jointly commissioned a detailed review of recent deaths in homeless services. It is important that we establish the facts concerning the circumstances involved, and that we base our response as policy makers and elected representatives on the best knowledge and evidence available.
It is vital that we continue to deliver the appropriate measures to ensure that all individuals experiencing homelessness are supported to exit into permanent housing solutions and that those with complex health and mental health needs are provided with the supports they need. My Department is working closely with the Department of Health, the HSE and local authorities in respect of these issues.
The Programme for Government includes measures targeted specifically at those experiencing homelessness with complex needs. It commits to the continued expansion of Housing First, and, importantly, ensuring that health and mental health supports are provided. The provision of addiction and mental health supports has featured prominently in meetings of the High Level Homelessness Task Force that I established and in my regular interactions with the Minister for Health. The issue of deaths in homeless services has also been discussed at the Task Force.
Engaging with rough sleepers is vital. This engagement is first and foremost to encourage those rough sleeping to avail of shelter. But critically, it also allows their health needs to be assessed and provided for.
As we move further into the winter months, cold weather arrangements are in place nationally. My Department is providing funding to allow for an increase in the overall bed capacity, the provision of 24 hour services in facilities with meals provided, and enhancements to outreach operations. The DRHE, which has responsibility for over 70% of all homeless persons nationally, has assured me that sufficient capacity exists in services to ensure that no person should sleep outside for the need of an emergency bed.
My Department publishes a detailed monthly report on homelessness, based on data provided by housing authorities. The Report outlines details of individuals utilising State-funded emergency accommodation arrangements that are overseen by housing authorities.
While the information requested by the Deputies is not collated by my Department, I understand that the Department of Health has commissioned the Health Research Board to undertake a one-year feasibility study to collect data on deaths among people who were homeless. I have been advised that the research will apply the methodology used to compile the National Drug Related Deaths Index, which is a census of drug-related deaths and deaths among drug users and those who are alcohol dependent in Ireland. The data collection for 2019 deaths, including deaths among people who were homeless, commenced earlier this year and will review approximately 17,000 files from all Coroner districts.